Some recent ties

I did up some more Lightning Bugs.  I like to do these both as a nymph, and as a soft hackle.  My "standard" color pattern is Magnum Saltwater Pearl flashabou for the abdomen, counter-wrapped with green wire.  I've been wanting to do a Purple version, as I hear 'gills will absolutely slay purple.  I originally wanted to do some Purple with Black wire, but after the first one, decided to go with the gold wire.

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Flash backs are the best. Good work! Pheasant tails fibers? Note on pheasant tails. Hen tails are lighter and the trout smash hen pheasant tails

The Lightning Bugs I did last year had Partridge for the tail and legs. When I was gearing up for these a few days ago, I started watching some videos on youtube to refresh myself on the pattern. I realized they were all using PT fibers. So, yes, these are PT fibers for the tail and legs. I still used Partridge for the soft hackle versions.

Thanks for the tip on hen PT. I may have to try and get some.

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Another one for me to tie up.

David

It's probably not readily sold. Male is most common. I use to get them from a guy who raised pheasants.

I'm pretty sure Feathercraft sells them. Hook and Hackle might as well.

Most States don't allow the taking of Hen pheasants so they can be tough to come by, here's a few places to look.  Check with:

Mike Hogue at eflytyer he has a full skin listed for $15 - I've dealt with him before and no problems
http://www.eflytyer.com/new_stuff/ns_feathers.html

AO Feathers 
http://www.aaronmostojfeathers.com/store/p44/Hen_Ringneck_Pheasant_Skin.html

Gills do like purple and I think you are right in tying some in that color would be killer gill flies. Nice tyes.

Those are really nice. I hope there's good trout fishing near you.

Thanks. There's one Type VI Trout stream in my county. Stocked with Browns. Unfortunately, the only access is where a road crosses the creek; it's almost completely surrounded by private property. That might mean EXCEPTIONAL fishing, or the locals have caught all the fish. Hopefully I'll be investigating that this year